PRESS BOX

Manning helps cause

August 30, 2007|By Tribune news services

Peyton Manning added a new pitch -- one from the heart. On the second anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, Manning gave an impromptu endorsement for tourism in his hometown of New Orleans -- and where his parents still live -- by calling on tourists to return to the city.

"Prayers and money are good, but there has been progress in certain areas and people can visit those areas," Manning said. "They need the tourists to come back."

*A son of Eagles coach Andy Reid was charged Wednesday with driving under the influence and drug violations while still awaiting sentencing for a separate road-rage incident earlier this year. Britt Reid was jailed last week for violating bail terms after police found 30 1/2 pills, including the painkiller hydrocodone, amphetamines and antidepressants, during a traffic stop in Plymouth Township.

*Michael Strahan still has not made a decision whether to play for the Giants or retire after 14 seasons. Agent Tony Agnone said the 35-year-old defensive end remains on the West Coast considering his options.